Nadal has won the French Open 14 times
Rafael Nadal eased to victory over teenage wildcard Darwin Blanch at La Caja Magica as he aims to prove his fitness in time for the French Open.
Nadal, 37, has hinted at retirement several times this year but overcame the biggest age gap ever between two singles players at a Masters event to set up a second-round clash with 10th seed Alex de Minaur.”It’s great after how things have developed the last few years, every time I have the chance to be on court in this amazing stadium with an unconditional supportive crowd, it means a lot to me,” Nadal said after the win.
Struggling with injury and currently ranked 644th in the world, Nadal said he will only compete at Roland Garros next month if he feels physically able.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Madrid Open: Rafael Nadal begins farewell with straight-set winRafael Nadal begins his Madrid Open farewell with a comfortable straight-set win over American teenager Darwin Blanch.
Read more »
Rafael Nadal: Spaniard will play French Open if 'able to compete'Rafael Nadal says he will only play at the French Open next month if he feels 'capable enough to compete' in Paris.
Read more »
Rafael Nadal's comeback at Barcelona Open ended by Alex de MinaurRafael Nadal's latest injury comeback - in what could be his final season before retirement - ends with a second-round defeat at the Barcelona Open.
Read more »
Rafael Nadal: Spaniard victorious at Barcelona Open as Cameron Norrie wins in bizarre fashionRafael Nadal made a triumphant return from injury in the first round of the Barcelona Open, defeating Flavio Cobolli in straight sets in impressive fashion.
Read more »
Rafael Nadal victorious in Barcelona Open comeback from injuryRafael Nadal made a triumphant return from injury in the first round of the Barcelona Open, defeating Flavio Cobolli in straight sets in impressive fashion.
Read more »
Rafael Nadal wins in straight sets at Barcelona Open on injury returnRafael Nadal enjoys a winning start at the Barcelona Open as he returns from another long-term injury in what could be his final year before retirement.
Read more »